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Current Regulatory Limit: Giardia Lamblia

Current Massachusetts Regulatory LimitMMCL = Treatment Technique. (Refer to 310 CMR 22.20.) ORS has adopted the MCL published by the U.S. EPA.

Federal Regulatory LimitThe MCL for Giardia lamblia is a Treatment Technique. Under U.S. EPA's Surface Water Treatment Rule, systems using surface water or groundwater under the direct influence of surface water must achieve a 99.9% removal/inactivation of Giardia lamblia. The MCLG for Giardia lamblia is zero.

Basis for CriteriaThe MCL for Giardia lamblia is based on a Treatment Technique as described above.

Critical EffectsGiardia lamblia is a waterborne protozoan parasite that can be transmitted via the fecal-oral route and can cause waterborne illness. Although 50-75% of giardiasis cases can be asymptomatic, symptoms of giardiasis can include chronic diarrhea, abdominal cramps, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and malabsorption of fats, among other symptoms. Transmission via water, especially in unfiltered water systems is one way in which Giardia is spread.

Cancer Assessment: N/A

ClassBiological Pathogen

Analytical InformationPQL: See U.S. EPA Method 1623 (U.S. EPA, 2001)

Analytical MethodsU.S. EPA Method 1623

PQLs and analytical methods may have been updated since this guidance value was last revised. Updated analytical methods for drinking water and their associated PQLs may be found at US EPA Drinking Water Analytical Methods
.